Diageo and APEDA flag off Godawan to the UK

In a significant development showcasing public-private partnership in India's alcoholic beverages sector, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Diageo flag off the first batch of an artisanal single malt whisky from Diageo, named Godawan, to the UK.

The event was attended by key figures, including Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, and Debra Crew, Chief Executive of Diageo Plc, Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, and Hina Nagarajan, MD & CEO, Diageo India along with other senior representatives from Diageo. The event was a key enabler to realise the vision of creating India’s pride of place in the global alcobev sector. Export of Godawan to the United Kingdom is one more step in this direction.

In this regard, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry stated, “The Government of India has set an ambitious target of $2 trillion in exports by 2030 - $1 trillion in goods and $1 trillion in services. This is not merely a numerical goal; it is a bold statement of intent: to establish India as a leader in the global economy. This vision is intricately tied to our transformative initiatives: ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat. These programs are propelling India's transformation into a global manufacturing hub, and Godawan stands as a shining example of their success. With every APEDA export, especially those like Godawan that embody such high standards of craftsmanship, we send a clear message - India is ready to lead, innovate, and excel on the world stage.”

Debra Crew expressed Diageo's commitment to supporting India’s long-term economic development, highlighting that the launch of Godawan in the UK represents a landmark moment for Indian craft spirits. She added, “With its distinctive quality and exceptional craftsmanship, we are excited to introduce this award-winning Indian single malt to the UK market.  We will continue to invest in innovation and manufacturing excellence in India as part of our long-term strategy.”

Godawan is produced under the Make in India initiative of the Government of India with an investment exceeding Rs.200 crore. Diageo India has introduced Godawan, an exceptional offering from its Alwar Distillery, the only Alliance for Water (AWS) certified distillery in Asia.